Indian Journal of Traditional KnowledgeVol. 7(2), April 2008, pp. 300-310

identify threatened status and suggest the future actionplan for safeguard of plants species. The study will beuseful for conservation of the traditional herbalknowledge as well as to formulate their sustainableutilisation.

Indigenous plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedarnathvalley of western Himalaya

VP Bhatti * & DP Vashishtha/'Department of Botany, Government PG College Gopeshwar, Chamoli, Uttarakhand

2Department of Botany, HNB Garhwal University, Sri nagar, Uttarakhand

E-mail: bhattvp3@yahoo.com;vishwapati_bhatt@rediffmail.com

Received 13 January 2006; revised 30 July 2007

The study deals with the indigenous plants used in traditional healthcare in Kedamath valley of Uttarakhand in westernHimalaya. A total 130 plant species belonging to 94 genera and 62 families have been identified. Of these, 21 species aretrees, 19 species are shrubs and 90 species are herbs. These species diversity are described for their distribution, utilisationpattern, and indigenous uses. The roots, rhizomes, bulbs, stems, tubers, leaves, barks, fruits and seeds are used for treatmentof different ailments. The plants are rare (30 sp), endangered (15 sp), and vulnerable (3 sp) and common (82). As per theirpopulation structure, several anthropogenic and natural causes are analysed for their threatened status. The study is a firstattempt to study the medicinal plants of the Kedamath valley area. Documentation of traditional knowledge on theethnomedicinal use of these plants was studied.

Keywords: Kedarnath valley, Ethnomedicine, Traditional healthcare, Plant conservationIPC Int. C1.8: A61K36/00, A61PII02, A61PII08, A61PlIIO, A61Pl116, A61P5/00, A61P9/14, A61P17/00, A61P17/02,A61P19/00, A61P29/00, A61P31/00,

The Indian Himalaya presents a spectrum ofbiological and cultural diversity. It supports 18,440plant species, of which 25.3% are endemic toHimalaya'<. The rich plant diversity of the Himalayais utili sed by the native communities in various formsof medicine. So far, 1,748 species of medicinal plantsand 675 of wild edible species have been reportedfrom the Himalaya':". The Kedarnath valley islocated between 30°21' to 31°16' latitude and 78°59'to 79°56' longitude in the northern part of westernHimalayan district of Rudraprayag, Garhwal(Figs 1,2). The valley is inhabited by 350 villages ofGarhwali, a local community with about 1,40,000population. The region is inaccessible and mostlyremains cut off from rest of the country during offseason. The inhabitant use local plant resources asmedicine, food, fodder, fuel, house building, timberand for various other purposes. The studies, carriedout so far, pertain to the inventory of the plantresources. However, resource utilization pattern andpopulation analysis of plants is yet to be studiedi".Use of plants in folk medicine of this region is notfully known and documented. Therefore, an attemptwas made to prepare a comprehensive inventory ofmedicinal plants, document their indigenous uses,

*Corresponding author

MethodologyExtensive survey was carried during 2003-2004 to

gather the information on species .occurrence, localnames, altitude range, life form and their uses Localknowledgeable persons and vaidyas (Vimla DeviSemwal of Benoli village, Asharam Goswarni ofJakhnyal village, Goverdhan Prasad Semwal ofMansoona village, Jabar Singh of Narayankoti,Rukmani Devi Rawat of Dangwari village,Sureshanand Thapliyal of Thala village) wereconsulted for information on indigenous uses ofvarious local plants. Frequent (6) field trips weremade during different seasons covering variouslocalities (Makkumath, Parkandi, Mansoona, Ransi-gondar, Ukhimath, Kimana, Pathali, Daira, Tala,Kotma, Kalimath, Basukedar, Kausalpur, Namoli,Lamgondi, Jola, Pathalidhar, Devshal, Kothara,Narayankoti, Hyun, Byung, Rabigaon,Triyuginarayan, Mayali, Dangi-Bhardar, Benoli,Kailash-Bangar, Jakhnyal, Bawai, Bhattgaoun,Tamariya, Jalai, Kandara, Bhanaj, Akhori, etc.

\

villages) of the study area. A tentative list ofmedicinally important local plants, their habit, habitat,medicinal uses, threatened status were recorded byconsulting herbarium, regional floras and fieldobservations.

The identification of specimens was done with thehelp of regional floras and specimens that are housedin Herbarium of HNB Garhwal University, SrinagarGarhwal, Uttarakhand6

•8-13• The collected plants were

arranged in alphabetical order under trees, shrubs andherbs heads and classified (Figs 3-12). The threatenedstatus has been enumerated as rare, vulnerable,endangered and common following the criteriaformulated by IUCN.

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BHA IT & V ASHISHTHA: TRADITIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM IN KEDARNATH VALLEY 301

Results and discussionThe study enumerates 130 plant species (trees 21

species, shrubs 19 species and herbs 90 species) ofplants belonging to 62 families; 94 genera areidentified, which have been used traditionally forvarious ailments by local inhabitants (Table 1).Among the collected species, 7 species is distributedin the subtropical area (500-1,000 m) followed by 52species in sub-temperate area (1,100-2,000 rn), 35species in temperate zone (2,100-3,000 m) and 36species in alpine zone (> 3,000m). The maximumnative species are distributed in sub-temperate area(1,100-2,000 m) followed by alpine zone (> 3,000 m),temperate zone (2,100-3,000 m) and subtropical area(500-1,000 m), respectively.

Tablel - Plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedarnath valley area of Uttarakhand

Plant name Local Family Diseases cured Plant partes) Method of administration(Garhwali) usedname

TreesAbies pindrow Royle Raga/Jhilla Pinaceae Rheumatism, ulcers, Resin, bark Syrup with honey is given

cough extract orally/bark paste on skin.A. spectabilis (D. Morinda Pinaceae Fever, asthma, Leaves, Syrup with honey and boiledDon) Mirbel bronchitis, cough bark extract water is given orally.Aegle marmelos (L.) Bel Rutaceae Diarrhoea, digestive Leaf and fruit Decoction is given orally.Correa disorderBetula utilis D. Don Bhojpatra Betulaceae Bums, cuts, Bark, resin Paste is applied on skinlliquid(Roxb.) Loud. contraceptive, jaundice, of resin is prepared for ear

ear complaints, hysteria, drop.wounds

Cedrus deodara Deodar Pinaceae Bowel complaints, piles, Bark Decoction is given orally; barkslambago, rheumatic paste is applied on skin forpain, arthritis, urticaria rheumatic pain.

Emblica officinalis Aonla Euphorbiaceae Stomach problem Fruit extract OralGaertn.Ficus aurculata Lour Timla Moraceae visceral obstructions, Fruit, bark, Oral

bladder complaints and leavesFicus semicordata Khaina Moraceae Leprosy, visceral Fruit, bark, Oral/leaves and fibre waterBuch.-Ham. ex obstructions, bladder and leaves bath.J.E.Smith complaintsFicus palmata Forsk Bedu Moraceae Visceral obstructions, Fruit, bark, Oral

bladder complaints, and leavesLeprosy

Juglans regia Linn. Akhor Juglandaceae Eczema, syphilis and Leaves and Paste of outer rind of fruit isrheumatism fruit used on skin.

Litsea glutinosa Singrau/ Lauraceae Bone fracture Wood and Paste applied on skin(Lour.) Robinson Maida-lakri barkMyrica esculenta Kaphal Myricaceae Headache, tonic Leaf, fruit Fruit juice taken is orally; pasteBuch. -Ham. Ex. is applied externally on skin.D.Don.Pinus wallichiana Kail Pinaceae Abscess, dislocation of Resin, bark Paste is applied on skin;Jacks. joints, unconsciousness, and leaves decoction is taken orally.

ulcerPrunus cerasoides Panya Rosaceae Psychomedicine, body Bark and leaf Paste is applied on skinD.Don. swelling and contusions paste

Contd-

302 INDIAN J TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE, VOL 7, No.2, APRIL 2008

Tablel - Plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedarnath valley area of Uttarakhand - Contd

Plant name Local Family Diseases cured Plant partes) Method of administration(Garhwali) usedname

Quercus Banj Fagaceae Gonorrhoea, digestive Bark, leaves, Decoction and syrup is takenleucotrichophora disorder gum orally.A. CamusRhododendron Burans Ericaceae rheumatism, dysentery, Leaves, flower Decoction or juice is takenarboreum Smith wounds, tonic, fever orally/ paste is applied on skin.Spondias pinnata Amra Anacardiaceae Stomach and ear Fruit, bark Juice orally/extract in liquid(L.f.) Kerz. problem gum, leaf form used as ear drop.Svzygium cumin (L.) lamun Myrtaceae Diabetes Bark, fruits, OralSkeels kernelTaxus baccata Linn. Thuner Taxaceae Sedative, cancer, Leaf, fruits Decoction taken orally/ bark

asthma, antiseptic, and bark and wood paste on skinfractured bones

Terminalia bellirica Bahera Combretaceae Stomach problem Fruit Decoction orally(Gaertn.) Roxb.T. chebula Retz Hera Combretaceae Stomach problem Fruit Decoction orallyShrubsAdhatoda vasica Nees Basinga Acanthaceae Whooping cough, Skin Leaf, flowers, Infusion or juice is taken orally.

diseases, Headache, rootDysentery, fever,pulmonary affection

Asparagus lhimi Liliaceae Sexual debility & tuberous root, Decoction or powder form isadscendens Buch.- urinogenital disorders, fruit taken orally.Ham. ex Roxb. diabetes, dysentery,

dysuriaA. .racemosus Willd Jhirni Liliaceae Aphrodisiac, antiseptic, Root Decoction taken orally.

refrigerant, urinogenitaldisorder or abortifacient

Berberis chitria KingoreiChotar Berberidaceae Jaundice, eye ailments, Fruit, bark and Boiled wood water is used asEdwards ophthalmia root eye drop/fruit, decoction of

root is taken orally.B. lyceum Royle. KirmoriRasaut Berberidaceae Diabetes/Skin disease, roots, stem and Boiled wood water is used as

jaundice, monorrhagia, bark eye drop/fruit, decoction ofeye ailments root orall y .

B. aristata DC. Kingore/ Berberidaceae Alterative, fever, skin decoction of Boiled wood water is used asDaruharidra disease, jaundice, bark root, eye drop; fruit! root decoction

opthalmia, fever wood is taken oral! y .B. asiatica Roxb. ex Kilmora Berberidaceae Leucorrhoea, fever, Root, bark, Boiled wood water is used asDC. jaundice, skin disease, wood eye drop/fruit, decoction of

opthalmia root is taken orally.Callicarpa Daiya Verbenaceae Rheumatic pains, Fruits and After heating it is appliedmacrophylla Vahl. aphthae leaves externally.Calotropis procera Ank Asclepiadaceae Expectorant, cold cough Latex, root, Oral/Skin(Aiton) Dryander and asthma bark and

flowerCannabis sativa Linn. Bhang Cannabinaceae Anthelmintic, appetite, Seed, leaves, Oral

bowel complaints, bark, fruitcramps, bronchitis, cuts,dyspepsia, gonorrhoea,ear and eye complaints,narcotic, piles, skineruption, cold, cough,convulsions, epilepsy,laxative, nervinestimulant, paralysis of .tongue, piles

Contd----_._ ... __ ._.... ,_.

BHATT & VASHISHTHA: TRADITIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM IN KEDARNATH VALLEY 303

Table1 - Plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedarnath valley area of Uttarakhand - Contd

Plant name Local Family Diseases cured Plant partes) Method of administration(Garhwali) usedname

Cinnamomum tamala Dalcheenil Lauraceae Stimulants, carminative, leaves and Decoction is taken orally.(Buch.-Ham.) Nees Tejpat rheumatism, diarrhoea, bark

scorpion sting, throatirritation, colic,dyspepsia

Ephedra gerardiana Tutgauthal Ephedraceae Asthma, joint pain, Stem and root Oral/SkinWall. ex Stapf Somlata blood pressure, extract

circulatory, cardiacstimulants, rheumatism,syphilis.

HippophaesalisiJolia Chuk Elaeagnaceae Cardiac trouble, Fruit Fruit juice for cardiac or syrupD.Don dandruff of immature fruit for dandruff.Prinsepia utilis Royle. Bhaikul Rosaceae Rheumatic pains and Seed, root and Skin/Oral

diarrhoea barkRhododendron Burans Ericaceae Coryza, catarrh leaves Decoction is taken orally.anthopogon D. DonR. campanulatum D. Burans Ericaceae Boils, cold, cough, fever, Root, leaves, OralDon headache, rheumatism, flower

sciatica, skin disorder,syphilis, tonic

Vitex nigundo L. Sinwali Verbenaceae Rheumatism, sprain root and fruits Decoction is taken orally.Arthritis, anthelmintic

Woodfordia fruticosa Dhaula Lythraceae Haemorrhoids, Leaves and Decoction or powder orally.(L.) Kurz febrifuge, Vaginitis bark, flowersZanthoxylum armatum Timru Rutaceae Tooth-ache, Tooth decay Fruit, Stem, Decoction or powder orally.DC. barkHerbsAbrus precatorius Ratti Fabaceae Fever, asthma, arthritis, Leaves, seed Decoction is taken orally.Linn. tuberculosis, and roots

stomatistics, rheumatic,dysentery and chest pain

Achyranthes aspera Lich-kuri Amaranthaceae Muscular cramps, Root, leaf Decoction is taken orally.Linn. malarial fever, to extracts

facilitate delivery,dropsy and bronchitis

A. bidentata Blume Chicheree/ltjiri Amaranthaceae Wounds and snake bites, Root, Plant Paste applied on skin!malarial fever, to extract Decoction is taken orally.facilitate delivery,dropsy and bronchitis

Aconitum balfourii Meetha Bish Ranunculaceae Rheumatism, Neuralgia, Rhizomes Paste fried in Ghee isStapf Paralysis, Rheumatic externally used,! powder of the

fever and puerperal purified rhizomes orally.fever, bowel complaints

A. heterophyllum Ateesh Ranunculaceae Fever, Cough, Chills, Root Powder mixed with honey isWall. ex. Royle Stomachache, Diarrhoea taken orall y.Acorus calamus Linn. Bauj Araceae Cough, vomiting and all Root Decoction is given orally.

stomach ailmentsAdiantum venustum Sun raj Adiantaceae Fever Frond Decoction is given orally.DonAjuga bracteosa Wall. Kadwipattil Lamiaceae Malaria, Astrigent and Plant extract ,Decoction is given orally.ex. Benth Neelkanthi febrifugeA. brachystemon Neelkanthi Larniaceae Malaria, Astrigent and Plant extract Decoction is given orally.Maxim. febrifuge

Contd-

304 INDIAN J TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE, VOL 7, No.2, APRIL 2008

Table 1 - Plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedamath valley area of Uttarakhand - Contd

Plant name Local Family Diseases cured Plant partes) Method of administration(Garhwali) usedname

Anemone polyanthes Ratanjot Ranunculaceae Food poisoning Seed Decoction is given orally.Buch.-Harn. ex D.DonA. obtusiloba D. Don. Kanchphool Ranunculaceae Diarrhoea Root Decoction is given orally.A. vitifolia Buch.- Mudeela Ranunculaceae Ringworm, Eczema Leaves and Paste is applied externally.Ham. ex DC rootAngelica glauca Choru Apiaceae Flatulence, Colic Root Decoction is given orally.Edgew.Argemone mexicana Kandelu Papaveraceae Leprosy, leucorrhoea Leaf and roots Paste with turmeric is appliedL. on skin/decoction is taken

orally.Arisaema tortuosum Bag mungri Araceae Snake bites, bums Tubers Paste externally applied.(Wall.) SchottA. concinnum Schott. Meen Araceae Snake bites Berries Paste is applied externally.A. wallichianum Meen Araceae Erysipelas & Scabies Tubers Paste is applied externally.Hook. f.A. jacquemontii Khaprya/Saperi Araceae Antidotes of poisonous Fruit Decoction is given orally.Blume mausi mushrooms/ snake biteArnebia benthamii Balchhari/ Boraginaceae Asthma, rheumatic pain, Roots Decoction is given orally;(Wall., ex G. Don) Ratanjot snake-bite, and mixed infusion is used externallyLM. Johston with mustered oil to used.

hasten the hair growthand give a red dye

Artemisia nilagirica Kunjaa Asteraceae Malaria fever, cuts & Plant Decoction is given orally/pasteC.B. Clarke wounds, headache, extractlleaf is used externally.

stomachacheAstragalus Rudravanti Fabaceae Blood disease, skin Root, whole Infusion is given orally/paste iscandolleanus Royle disease and tuberculosis plant applied on skin.ex. BenthA. chlorostachys Rudravanti Fabaceae Tonic, tuberculosis Root, whole Infusion is given orally/paste isLindley plant applied on skin.Bergenia ciliata Silphara Saxifragaceae Kidney stones, Sores, Root, leaves Decoction/juice is given orally;(Haworth) Sternb. Swellings, tonic paste is applied on swelling.Bidens pilosa L. Kumra/kurei Asteraceae Cough, cuts, diarrhoea, Whole plant Extract is given orally/ as eye

ear and eye complaints, drop/as ear drop/paste onheadache, leprosy, skinlbath.snakebite, inflammation,skin disorder, sores,wounds, leucoderma

Boerhavia diffusa L. Pundera/Pumav Nyctaginaceae Jaundice, Asthma, Roots, plant, Decoction is given orally/a Bronchitis, Eye problem leaf Infusion of plant as eye drop.

Carum carvi L. Jangli dhania Apiaceae Carminative, Cold Seed, young Decoction is given orally.Cough, Fever, Stomach plantdisorder,

Cassia tora L. Chakunda Caesalpiniaceae Skin disease, cut, Leaves, fruits Skin /Oralwounds, piles, snakebite, and rootsbone fracture anddropsy

C. occidentalis L. Chakunda Caesalpiniaceae Skin disease, cuts, piles, Leaves, fruits Skin IOralwounds and bone and rootsfracture, ringworms,boils

Contd-

BHATT & VASHISHTHA: TRADITIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM IN KEDARNATH VALLEY 305

Table1 - Plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedamath valley area of Uttarakhand - Contd

Plant name Local Family Diseases cured Plant part( s) Method of administration(Garhwali) usedname

Centella asiatica (L.) Brahmi Apiaceae Mental disorder, blood Whole plant Decoction is given orally /pasteUrban purifier, diuretic, skin and leaf is applied on skin.

disease, and leprosyCissampelos ereira L. Parha Menispermaceae Snake, scorpion bite, Root Orally

gastric, cough andurinary troubles

Corydalis govaniana Bhutkeshi Fumariaceae Antiperiodic, hysteria, Root, whole Skin /OralWall. diuretic, alterative, plant

syphilis, scorfulaC. cornuta Royle Indrajata Fumariaceae Swelling, inflammation, whole plant Skin /Oral

feverCuscuta europaea L. Akash-laguli Cuscutaceae Skin disease Plant SkinDactylorhiza Salampanja/Gar Orchidaceae Expectorant, wounds, Tuber Past is applied externally.hatagiria (D. Don) urpanja tumour, astringentSoo aphrodisiac, bone

fractureDelphinium elatum Nirbishi Ranunculaceae Itch, skin eruptions, eye Seed SkinLinn. soresD. denudatum Wall. fern! Nirvishi Ranunculaceae Toothache, snake bite Tuber/rhizome Skinex Hook.f.&ThomsD. brunonianum Nirvishi Ranunculaceae Cuts, wounds and Tuberlrhizome SkinRoyle rheumatismD. caeruleum Jacq. Nirvishi Ranunculaceae Cuts, wounds and Tuber/rhizome Skin

rheumatismD. vestitum Wall. ex Nirvishi Ranunculaceae Cuts, wounds and Roots SkinRoyle rheumatismDioscorea bulbifera Gainthi Dioscoreaceae Bronchial cough, Tubers Eaten as vegetable/paste onL. antiseptic and burn burn and wounds.

woundsD. deltoidea Tairu Dioscoreaceae Urinogenital disorders Rhizomes OralWallich.ex. Griseb.Drimia indica (Roxb.) Banpyaz Liliaceae Epilepsy, diabetes Bulb, leaves Juice is taken orally.JessopEuphorbia hirta L. Dudhibari Euphorbiaceae Piles, bronchial Entire plant Decoction with curd is taken

infection, wart and and latex orallylinfusion used externally.asthma

Evolvulus alsinoides Sankhpushpi Convolvulaceae Cough, cold, asthma, Plant and Decoction is given orally.L. brain tonic and flower

bronchitisFagopyrum Ougal Polygonaceae Lung disorder, Root, fruit and Decoction is given orally.esculentum (L.) rheumatism, typhoid, leavesMoench. urinary complaints.Fumaria indica Pit-papra Daphniphyllaceae Fever, wounds, Whole plant Decoction is given orally/paste(Haussk.) Pugsl. suppressed urination on wounds.Girardinia Bhaisya kandalil Urticaceae Gonorrhoea, delivery Leaf Decoction! juice is givendiversifolia (Link) Jhirkandali problem orally.FriisGloriosa superba L. Langlya Liliaceae Painful delivery, Tubers, leaves Decoction!powder is given

suppressed urination orally.Hedychium spicatum Kapoorkachri/ Zingiberaceae Dyspepsia, Piles, Root Decoction of rhizome withBuch.-Ham. Ex. J.E. Banhaldi Tuberculosis, Asthma sawdust of Deodara, purifiedSmith roasted powder of rhizome is

given orally.Contd-

306 INDIAN J TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE, VOL 7, No.2, APRIL 2008

Table 1 - Plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedarnath valley area of Uttarakhand - Contd

Plant name Local Family Diseases cured Plant partes) Method of administration(Garhwali) usedname

Heracleum candicans Kakriya Apiaceae Leucoderma, Menstrual Root, fruit Paste is applied externally/fruitWall. Ex DC. disorder, eczema, itches orally.H. canescens Lindley Kakrya Apiaceae Eczema, ringworm Root Paste is applied externally.Jurinea dolomiaea Dhoop lakkad Asteraceae Antiseptic, colic, fever 3000-3500 SkinBoiss and laxativeLeucas cephalotes Biskhapru/ Larniaceae Diphoretic, anthelmintic, Plant Decoction is given orally.(Roth) Sprengel Dronpushpi snake-biteMorina longifolia Bish-kandara Dipsacaceae Snake-bite, boils, Root Paste is applied externally.Wall., ex DC. woundsNardostachys Jatamasi Valerianaceae Epilepsy, Hysteria Rhizomatous Paste is applied externallyjatamansi DC. rootsOriganum vulgare L. Bantulsi Lamiaceae Bronchitis, colic, Extract of Oral

whooping cough, and leavediarrhoea

Dactylorrhiza Salampanja/ Orchidaceae Expectorant, wounds, Tuber Paste is applied externallyhatagirea D. Don Garurpanja tumour astringent,

aphrodisiac, bonefracture

Oxalis corniculata L. Bhilmora Oxalidaceae Appetite, corns, cuts, Whole plant Oral/Skindysentery, fever,jaundice, rickets,scurvey, swelling,stomachache, wart

Picrorhiza kurrooa Kutki Scrophubriaceae Cathratic, stomachic, Roots, whole Oral/SkinRoyle ex Benth. fever, dyspepsia and plant

purgetivePimpinella acuminata Adiantaceae Stomach disorder, Root/whole Oral/Skin(Edgew.) CI. gastric, diarrhea, plant extract

dysenteryPeurospermum Chippi Adiantaceae Anthelmintic, Gastric, Root Oral/Skinangelicoides (DC.) CI. StomachachePlantago depressa Luhurya Plantaginaceae Cuts, wounds and piles, Leaves and Seeds are eaten, paste isWilld. stomach ailments seeds applied externally.P. lanceolata L. Luhurya Plantaginaceae Cuts, wounds and piles, Leaves, seeds Skin

ailmentsPodophyllum Bankakri Podophyllaceae Purgeti ve, al terati ve, Root Skinhexandrum Royle bitter-tonicPotentilafulgens Bajradanti Rosaceae Stomatitis and aphthae Fruits and Decoction/juice is given orally.Wall. ex Hook. whole plantP: gerardiana Wall. Bajradanti Rosaceae Cut and wounds Root Paste is applied on wounds.ex LindleyRauvolfia serpentina Sarpgandha Apocynaceae Fever, anxiety, epilepsy, Roots Decoction is given orally /Skin(L.) Benth. intestinal and nervous

disorderRheum australe D. Archu Polygonaceae Bone-ache, Muscular Rhizome/ Paste with turmeric and friedDon pains, Bruise, abdominal roots with Ghee is applied on skin/

pain, appetite, dysentery Decoction is given orally.R. moorcroftianum Dolu Polygonaceae Constipation, umblicus Rhizome/ Decoction is given orally.

<, Royle rootsRubia manjith Roxb. Majethi Rubiaceae Tonic, astringent, snake- Stem, root Decoction is given orally.ex Flem. bite, dysenteryRumex hastatus r Polygonaceae Cuts, wounds and check Plant extracts Decoction is given orally /AlmoraD.Don.

,-!il;,! j"

bleeding Paste is applied on skin.Contd-

BHATT & VASHISHTHA: TRADITIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM IN KEDARNATH VALLEY 307

Tablel - Plants in traditional healthcare system in Kedamath valley area of Uttarakhand - Contd

Plant name Local Family Diseases cured Plan t parte s) Method of administration(Garhwali) usedname

Saussurea lappa Kuth Asteraceae Asthama, bronchitis Root Decoction /powder is givenDecne. orally.S. obvallata (DC.) Brahm Kamal Asteraceae Leucoderma Root Paste is applied on skin.Edgew

S. simpsoniana (Field Phenkamal Astereceae Metrorrhagia Entire plant -- -- -- --- -- -- --- ----

& Gardn.) Lipsch.

Selinum tenuifolium Bhutkesh Apiaceae Incence, insecticidal, Root ---- ----- ----- ------

Wall. exCL Nervine sedative

S. vaginatum Bhutkesh Apiaceae Nervine sedative, Root Decoction is given orally.(Edgew.) Cl. hysteria

Sese li sibirieum (L.) Takkar Adiantaceae Mental disorder Leaf, Root Decoction is given orally.Boiss.Smilax aspera L. Kukardara Smilacaceae Diuretic, diaphoretic and Root Paste is applied on skin.

rheumatic-arthritisS. glaucophylla Kukardara Smilacaceae Flatulence, aphthae, Root Decoction is given orally.Klotzsh feverSolanum nigrum L. Makoi Solanaceae Spleen, Diarrhoea, eye leaves and Infusion is given orally /Eye

ailments, and piles stems drop

Stephania glabra Gindaru Menispermaceae Psycomedicine, Tuber Decoction is given orally.Roxb. dysentery, asthma,

tuberculosis, fever

Swertia angustifolia Chirotu Gentianaceae Blood disease and Plant extract Decoction is given orally.Buch. -Ham., ex malariaD.Don.

S. chiriyata (Roxb. ex Chirayta Gentianaceae Blood disease and Plant extract Decoction is given orally.Fleming) Karsten malaria

Taraxacum officinale KanphullKaratu Asteraceae Blisters, Blood purifier, Root, young Decoction is given orally.Weber bowels, diuretic, ulcers, shoot and

dysentery, dislocation of leavesjoints, foment, gastric,headache, kidneydisorder, livercomplaints, tonicvertigo, wounds

Thalictrum foliolosum Mamiri Ranunculaceae Eye-inflammation, colic, Root Decoction is given orally.DC. fever and ophthalmia

T. secundum Edgew Peelijari Ranunculaceae Stomach disorders Root Decoction is given orally.

Tinospora sinensis Giloe Menispermaceae Debility, urinary stem and Infusion is given orally/Skin.(Lour.)Merrill. troubles, leprosy malaria leavesUrtica dioca L. Kandali Urticaceae Dysmenorrhoea, entire plant Decoction is given orally.

Sciatica, rheumatism andskin ailments

Valeriana jatamansii Samewa Dipsacaceae Aphrodisiac mental Roots Decoction is given orallyJones disorders

Viola betonicifolia Vanafsa Violaceae Sinusitis, Skin and blood Whole plant, Extract or powder of plant,Smith disease, diaphoretic, leaf leave decoction is given orally.

fever and cough,Pharyngitis

Withania somnifera Ashwagandha Solanaceae Urinary disorders and Leaf, root Juice or powder orally.(L.) Dunal fever, Scrofula,

Insomnia

308 INDIAN J TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE, Vol 7, No.2, APRIL 2008

Uttark&shl

Tehri

Fig. 1 Location map of Utlarakhand Fig. 2 Location map of Rudraprayag~

Fig. 3 Acorus calamus

Fig. 10 Rubia manjith Fig. 12 Terminalia chebulaFig. 11 Taxus baccata

BHA IT & VASHISHTHA: TRADITIONAL HEALTHCARE SYSTEM IN KEDARNATH VALLEY

The medicinal plants are categorized as rare: (Abiespindrow, ,Betula utilis, Asparagus adscendens, A.racemosus, Berbaris lyceum, Aconitum atrox, A.heterophyllum, Ajuga brachystemon, Anemonepolyanthes, A. obtusilosa, Arisaema tortuosum,Astragalus candolleanus, A. chlorostachys, Boerhaviadiffusa, Carum carvi, Cuscuta europoaea,Delphinium elatum, D. denudatum, D. brunonianum,D. caeruleum, D. vestatum, Hedychium spicatum,Leucas cephalotus, Morina longifolia, Rubia majitha,Saussuria lappa, S. ovallata, S. simpsoniana, Selinumvaginatum, Thalictrum foliolosum); endangered:(Taxus baccata, Acorus calamus, Angelica glauca,Bergenia ciliata., Ephedra gerardiana, Corydalisgovaniana, C. cornuta, Gloriosa superba,Nardostachys jatamansi, Plantago depressa.,Podophyllum hexandrum, Rauvolfia serpentina,Swertia angustifolia, S. chiriyita, Tinospora sinensis);vulnerable: (Picrorhiza kurrooa, Rheum emodi,Dioscorea deltoidea) and rest 82 species of commonplants.

The local communities use these indigenous plantsfor curing most of their ailments includingtuberculosis, asthma, paralysis, diarrhoea, jaundice,opthalmia, kidney stone, bone fracture, mentaldisorder, arthritis, urinogenital disorders, snake bite,wounds and cuts. The traditional people, involved inmedicare (Vaidyas) do not easily disclose the nameand places of occurrence of these plants in order toavoid competition for plant material and misuse ofplant population. This has blocked the correct andauthentic documentation of the traditional folkmedicines. However, the society is becoming openminded, conscious and ready to part with the valuableundisclosed information with the next generation.

The unplanned land use pattern such asurbanisation, industrialisation, quarrying, mining,tourism, deforestation, grazing and browsing,commercial exploitation of useful plants areresponsible for the resources degradation 10,14.One ofthe most important factors of the degradation ofbiodiversity is the clearance for developmentalactivities and invasion of the alien (weed) species inthe hills. Eupatorium adenophorum, Lantana camara,and Parthenium hysterophorus are occupying largetracts from foot hills to 2,000 m elevation, reducingthe area for the naturally occurring wild plants10,15,16.The invasive species causing great loss to thediversity and economic loss, resulting to reduction incrop yield. A good number of species found to occurin thickets such as Acanthospermum hispidum,

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Ageratum conyzoides, Argemone mexicana, Cassiaoccidentalis, Cassia tora, Chenopodiumambrosioides, Clerodendrum viscosum, Corchorusaestuans, Coronopus didymus, Dononaeaangustifolia, Impatiens spp., Nicotianaplumbaginifolia, N. rustica, Oxalis corniculata, Phylanodiflora, Ricinus communis, Saussurea heteromalla,Stella ria media, Tagetes minuta, T. patula, Veronicaspp., Xanthium indicum, Zornia gibbosa, etc. Besides,several recently introduced weedy species are alsoadversely affecting the plant diversitl,17·19.

Out of 15,000-16,000 plant species, 1,500-1,600flowering plants species are under the threatenedcategoryI4,20.28.The common drug yielding plants thatare under threatened categories, includes Aconitumbalfouri, Aconitum heterophyllum, Arnebia benthamii,Acorus calamus, Berberis spp., Bergenea stracheyi,Btciliata. Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Dioscoreadeltoidea, D.glabra, Ephedra gerardiana, Hedychiumspicatum, Hyosocyamus niger, Iphigenia indica,Jurinea dolomiaea, Meconopsis aculeata,Nardostachys grandiflora, Picrorhiza kurrooa,Podophyllum hexandrum, Rheum australis, Swertiasp, Saussurea costos, Valeriana jatamansi, etc. Thereare 22 valuable medicinal plants found in Kedarnathvalley area. There is a need to educate and inculcateawareness about the concern of nature, especially forrare and endangered species as well as to theirhabitats and associated socio-economic values. Thenew opportunities generated by the recenttechnological advances in the field of medicinal andaromatic plants cultivation, their processing and tradecan make the farmers economically benefited. In-situand ex-situ conservation efforts are also required tomaintain such plant germplasm in the regioninvolving the local communities.

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